"First Look: New Star Wars Novel Dives into Post-Rise of Skywalker Era"

Star Wars fans eager to delve into the galaxy far, far away beyond the events of *The Rise of Skywalker* will soon get their wish, although not through Shawn Levy's highly anticipated film, *Star Wars: Starfighter*. Instead, a new young adult novel titled *Star Wars: The Last Order* will offer the first exploration of the post-*Rise of Skywalker* universe. Announced via Penguin Random House's website, this novel will focus on the beloved characters Finn, portrayed by John Boyega, and Jannah, played by Naomi Ackie, from the 2019 film.

The official synopsis from the publisher, penned by author Kwame Mbalia, provides an enticing glimpse into the story:

“Following the end of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the Resistance rescues a ship full of young passengers who had been kidnapped by the First Order. As Finn and Jannah set out to find the First Order officer responsible before he can endanger any more children, the two former stormtroopers must wrestle with their own complicated pasts as soldiers of the oppressive regime.”

This novel marks the inaugural project to delve into the Star Wars universe post-*Rise of Skywalker*, despite not being the first planned endeavor to do so. Shawn Levy's *Star Wars: Starfighter*, set to explore the universe several years after *Rise of Skywalker*, remains a highly anticipated addition to the franchise. In a February interview with Deadline, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy shed light on the timeline, stating, "It’s all post-[the first] nine. Shawn’s is a standalone Star Wars story that'll take place post-nine, maybe five or six years out." Additionally, writer Jonathan Tropper expressed his enthusiasm for the project to Screen Rant last month, saying, "I hope it's on the way sooner than you think." Shortly after, the film's release date was announced at Star Wars Celebration Japan, with Ryan Gosling confirmed to star, set for May 28, 2027.

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According to Penguin Random House, *Star Wars: The Last Order* is slated for release on October 21, 2025, while fans will need to wait a bit longer for Shawn Levy's *Star Wars: Starfighter*, which will hit theaters on May 28, 2027.